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web/ socialmedia based company

Hi, I am currently trying to start a web/social media based company. I have a
few questions I'm really confused about.
1. First off, I already have a domain name. It will be a small based company
at first with hope of expansion. I am the only owner. If I am the sole
proprietor do I need to register as an LLC? Or can I just get a DBA? And what
exactly do I need to do for that.
2. I am in Las Vegas and since it is web based company and I will be selling
services is there a certain license I need? I'm limited on funds so the
easier the better.
3. Do I need to trademark anything?
Thanks, I have a lot more questions. Anything helps.

BizResearcher | Window Shopper |
1/5/2014 - 7:58 pm

To answer your questions: 1. You can be a sole proprietorship or an LLC. If
you think you might incur any liability, go with the LLC. If not, then start
as a sole proprietor and you can always change later. You form a sole
proprietorship simply by filing your business name. Be aware that a sole
proprietorship is not considered a separate business entity, but rather an
extension of you. All income is yours and all debts become your personal
debts. It is more difficult to sell a SP and to obtain a loan, should you
want to do either.

2. Check with the Las Vegas city clerk's office to find out if you need a
local business license. Some cities license only a few business activities;
others license all businesses. If Nevada charges sales tax on services, you
will need a sales tax permit as well.

3. Before you can apply for a trademark, you must be using the logo or name
in business for a period of time, usually 3 months or more. You may want to
consider trademarking in the state rather than with the USPTO unless you plan
to offer services nationwide. It is much more expensive to register a
trademark nationally than at the state level. However, registering at the
state level only protects you from someone in NV attempting to use your
trademark.

JWVincent | Window Shopper |
1/4/2014 - 10:53 pm

Greetings,
I am also new and trying to start a business. I found many good resources on
USTPO.gov about trademarks, patents and copyrights. I would recommend
watching the video at http://www.uspto.gov/trademarks/basics/index.jsp. It
gives a lot of good advice and will help you decide whether or not to
trademark your brand or domain name. Good luck, and please share anything you
learn. I'm looking for similar answers for starting a mobile app business!
John